1. Early Trade and Migration (Ancient Times)

   • Madagascar’s earliest settlers were Austronesian peoples from Southeast Asia (Indonesia/Malaysia) and Bantu-speaking people from East Africa.

   • There is evidence of early Chinese trade goods reaching Madagascar indirectly through maritime trade networks across the Indian Ocean, though direct Chinese presence was limited before the modern era.

2. 19th Century Diplomatic Contacts

   • During the 19th century, China was already engaging in global maritime trade.

   • While Madagascar was under the Merina Kingdom and later French colonial influence, Chinese laborers and merchants began migrating to Madagascar, mainly for trade and agriculture.

3. 20th Century Immigration

   • Chinese migrants settled in Madagascar, mainly in urban areas like Antananarivo, Mahajanga, and Toamasina.

   • Many worked as shopkeepers, traders, or artisans.

   • The Chinese community, though small, became economically influential over time.

4. Modern Diplomatic and Economic Relations

   • China and Madagascar established formal diplomatic relations in 1972.

   • China has since invested heavily in infrastructure projects in Madagascar, including roads, bridges, hospitals, and stadiums.

   • Trade has increased: Madagascar exports vanilla, cloves, seafood, and minerals to China, while importing machinery, electronics, and textiles.

5. Cultural and Social Links

   • The Chinese diaspora in Madagascar has influenced local cuisine, commerce, and culture.

   • Confucian and Buddhist influences are minimal compared to other regions, but Chinese festivals and communities are present.

Timeline of China–Madagascar Relations

1. Ancient Times – Indirect Trade (Before 16th Century)

• Madagascar’s early settlers came from Southeast Asia and East Africa.

• Chinese goods like porcelain and silk may have reached Madagascar indirectly via Indian Ocean trade networks.

• No evidence of direct Chinese settlement or official contact yet.

2. 19th Century – Early Chinese Migration and Trade

• During the Merina Kingdom (central Madagascar), Chinese merchants and laborers began arriving.

• Most Chinese immigrants worked in commerce, small-scale trade, and agriculture.

• Trade was primarily with local Malagasy elites, though numbers were limited.

3. Early 20th Century – Colonial Era

• Under French colonial rule (1896–1960), Chinese immigrants continued to arrive, mainly in urban centers:

  • Antananarivo – capital and trade hub

  • Mahajanga & Toamasina – ports for maritime trade

• Chinese communities established shops, markets, and artisan workshops, gradually gaining economic influence.

4. Mid 20th Century – Post-Independence Relations

• Madagascar gained independence in 1960.

• Initial contacts with China were cautious due to Cold War geopolitics.

• Small Chinese diaspora remained influential in local trade and commerce.

5. 1972 – Diplomatic Relations

• China and Madagascar officially established diplomatic ties.

• Exchange of ambassadors and initial development cooperation began.

6. Late 20th – Early 21st Century – Economic Expansion

• China invested in infrastructure projects in Madagascar: roads, bridges, stadiums, hospitals, and schools.

• Trade increased:

  • Madagascar exports: vanilla, cloves, seafood, and minerals

  • Madagascar imports: machinery, electronics, textiles

• Chinese companies became active in sectors like construction, mining, and transport.

7. 21st Century – Modern Strategic Partnership

• China is now a major economic partner of Madagascar.

• Chinese community continues to thrive in urban areas.

• Cultural ties include Chinese New Year celebrations and some integration in commerce and society.

• Madagascar participates in China-led initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative, strengthening infrastructure and trade links.